Abstract
The article comments on the development of Czech-Rumanian relations from the middle ages to present time. Besides political and diplomatic relations, it deals with economical and cultural contacts between both nations throughout historical events or in relation to significant persons.
The first important chapter of mutual relations is undoubtedly marked by the Hussites' residence. The Hussites settled down in Rumania due to favourable religious circumstances and helped the local princes in their wars against the Turks.
During the reign of Rudolf II in the early 17th century, the Prince Michal Chrabrý arrived in Prague where he received financial support for his wars against the Turks. During the 19th century, the Czech-Rumanian relations were realised mainly through contacts and partnership of the Czech and Rumanian politicians within Austria-Hungary.
At that time, the first translations of Rumanian literature into Czech and the first travellers' testimony on the situation in the Rumanian lands appeared. The philosopher and teacher Jan Urban Jarník was a significant propagator of bilateral dealings.
The abbot Metod Zavoral established a military hospital at the Strahov monastery and personally visited the injured Rumanian soldiers. Diplomatic relations between the Czechoslovak Republic and Rumania were established in 1919, after resolving border disputes on the Carpathian Ruthenian territory.
Mutual dealings with significant trade activities based on the Little Entente developed in the interwar period. Supplies of goods from the Czechoslovak Republic to Rumania were particularly important.
The diplomatic relations were interrupted during World War II, but the Rumanian army had a significant role in liberating Czechoslovakia at the end of the conflict. Restoration of political relations started in 1945 and culminated in May 1947 by elevating both diplomatic representations to embassies.